Outreach Worker – Avon/DRS

MHA Inc.; Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Family Leave

Long Term Disability

Job summary

MHA Inc. is seeking an Outreach Worker for the SHIFT Avon Permanent Housing program in Massachusetts.

The role provides supportive case management to 12-15 adults in recovery and housing placement, using trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches. You will engage clients, build links with community resources, and support goals while assisting with program tasks for outreach and residential participants.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver's license and reliable vehicle.
• Experience with homelessness, trauma, psychiatric diagnoses, and/or substance use preferred.
• Ability to work independently, manage time, and prioritize tasks.
• Effective oral, written, organizational, and computer skills.
• Compassion, patience and trauma-informed approach.
• Must pass CPR and First Aid certifications.

Responsibilities

• Complete thorough assessments of needs and develop IAPs aligned with personal goals.
• Provide trauma-informed and strengths-based interventions.
• Help clients progress toward established goals as requested.
• Monitor and document behavior, progress, and incidents.
• Support tenancy preservation and safe housing maintenance.
• Assist with life skills development and task execution.
• Facilitate access to community services for health and housing needs.
• Build relationships with community resources and supports.
• Help residents connect with community resources and supports.
• Provide crisis support and de-escalation as needed.
• Offer additional support for residents in transitional housing.
• Communicate with team and attend program meetings.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Documentation

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Tools

CPR certification

First Aid certification

Job description

Position Summary

The Outreach Worker position with the SHIFT Avon Permanent Housing program provides supportive case management services to 12-15 adults living in the community, who are managing a process of recovery and skills to maintain permanent housing placement. This position requires engagement and relationship-building with individuals with varied needs for support, along with knowledge of or development of relationships with community resources and supports. The person in this role supports individuals with a recovery and trauma-informed focus, utilizes a strengths-based approach and is aligned with MHA’s Core Values- Respect, Integrity & Compassion. The Outreach Worker assists and supports individuals in the development of and attainment of goals that feel most important to them and supports the Program Supervisor with tasks and program support as needed and assigned for both the outreach and residential participants.

Pay Rate

$19-21 an hour

Open Shift

Monday through Friday 8am-4pm (40hrs)

Key Responsibilities

• Complete thorough assessments of needs, skills, strengths and resources and develop IAP’s that support everyone’s personal goals.
• Provide supportive interventions from a trauma-informed and strengths-based perspective.
• Support individuals in work towards meeting their established goals, as requested.
• Monitor and document behavior, progress, and incidents.
• Provide support and skill-building focused on tenancy preservation and maintenance of safe and secure housing.
• Provide support with life skills tasks and skill-development.
• Assist in securing supportive services as needed for substance use, mental health, physical health needs, income, in-home support, etc.
• Build relationships with community resources and support services to aid in the support of individuals in the program.
• Assist individuals with making connections in their community and identifying helpful and supportive resources.
• Provide crisis support and de-escalation as needed.
• Provide additional support when needed for residents in the transitional, residential environment.
• Communicate consistently with team members and supervisors.
• Attend program meetings as scheduled.

About the GRIT Program

The GRIT program at MHA provides residential rehabilitation for individuals with substance use challenges and co-occurring mental health conditions. Residents participate in individualized counseling, recovery-focused programming, and community activities such as education, job training, or employment, all within a structured and supportive environment. With locations in Springfield (men’s programs) and Holyoke (LGBTQIA+ program), GRIT combines the comforts of home with access to vital resources. A skilled, multidisciplinary team works closely with each resident to support recovery, personal growth, and long-term stability, while creating personalized aftercare plans for a successful return to the community.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, acceptable driving record, and sufficient insurance.
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience working with individuals impacted by homelessness, trauma, psychiatric diagnoses, and/or substance use is preferred
• Ability to work independently, manage time, and prioritize tasks.
• Effective oral, written, organizational, and computer skills.
• Compassion, patience, strong interpersonal skills and understanding of trauma-informed care.
• Must be able to pass and maintain certifications in CPR and First Aid.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Long Term Disability
• $19-21 an hour

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.